"Art Teaching Series of Gongsixiao Watercolor Sketches: Comprehensive Still Life"

Author: Gong Liuzhao
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-06-01
Features: The concept of still life is very broad, and many things in daily life can be used as subjects for still life, such as ceramics, handicrafts, glassware, metalwork, flower pots and bonsai, animal specimens, fruits and vegetables, kitchen utensils, stationery and musical instruments, and plaster teaching aids, etc. When arranging a group of still life, the artist must carefully select and plan, fully considering the size and shape of the objects, the light and shadow levels, the warm and cool colors, the roughness and softness of the textures, the spacing and density of the layout, the reasonable setting of the environment, and whether the artist's perspective is appropriate. Based on these factors, the arrangement of still life should pay attention to the following issues:
a. Placing several objects of the same size together may make it difficult to distinguish the main and secondary elements, lacking variety and charm.
b. A group of still life that is too clustered, sparse, or evenly arranged may feel stiff.
c. In terms of color coordination, attention should be paid to overall harmony and transitional layers. For example, two objects of the same size—one a vivid and striking red, the other a highly distinctive emerald green—may clash in the main colors, making it challenging to handle the dominant color theme when combined., the background of a still life arrangement may place a dark-colored cloth next to a bright-colored one on the wall, creating a strong contrast between light and dark. Without some gray objects and cloths to transition, the effect can appear harsh.
d. Arranging still life also requires consideration of black and white levels. In bright environments and with bright objects, the light and shadows can help distinguish the light and dark relationships and color interactions. However, in environments and objects close to black, only the light source can enhance the contrast, but since dark-colored objects reflect poorly, handling the dark areas becomes difficult. This is why there are rarely exercises in sketching that focus solely on black object combinations.
A still life arrangement must not only fully consider the formal elements between the objects, determine the theme, but also consider whether the mood aligns with life's logic and whether it can inspire rich artistic associations. Some combinations are harmonious and moving, such as fresh fruits, (crystal-clear highball glasses), bottles filled with fine wine, set against a beautiful environment and bright lighting, which evoke a refreshing and alluring feeling. On the other hand, combinations like coarse porcelain bowls, pickling jars, radishes, potatoes, and cabbage can fully convey the rustic simplicity and warmth of rural life.
However, there are also still life arrangements that seek harmony in disharmony and reason in unreasonable settings. For example, the combination of cow and sheep skulls with fresh flowers. At first glance, this arrangement may seem illogical, but the juxtaposition of objects with different textures and colors creates a unique visual experience. The cow and sheep skulls emit a lifeless white glow, once they had joyfully roamed and lived with their glorious past, but now they are mere cold, lifeless artworks, leaving viewers to ponder their beautiful yet sorrowful skulls. Nearby, the flowers are lush and vibrant, basking in the sun and enjoying life's beauty.
Facing such a still life arrangement, one can reflect on the philosophy of life and death, the contrast between vitality and stillness, and the profound meaning behind the interplay of life and art.